SPI High School French Immersion & Cultural Leadership in France
Location
- France
- Biarritz
Length
1 - 12 weeks
Apr 14, 2020
Feb 13, 2019
41 travelers are looking at this program
About Program
SPI Study Abroad's high school French immersion program in Biarritz gives students the opportunity to truly experience France from an insider's perspective. Gracefully situated on the southwestern Atlantic coast, Biarritz is a luxurious French seaside town full of summertime amenities that attracts families from all over the country! Also known as the surf capital of Europe, this vibrant city comes to life with spectacles of live music, surf competitions, artists, and parades. Students live with caring homestay families, attend French language and culture class for college credit, participate in a variety of engaging cultural activities, and travel to some of the country's most amazing sites — creating memories that last a lifetime!
Response from SPI Study Abroad
While we fully appreciate and value all of the feedback we receive from our former students, it is also necessary that we address the concerns brought forth in this particular review.
As SPI states on our “What’s Included” page, spending varies greatly by person according to his or her preferences. So, while all program-related expenses are covered by the total tuition, we also recommend bringing a weekly budget of $250-$300 per week. This budget includes local transportation ($50), optional elective activities ($100), meals on overnight excursions ($50) and personal spending money ($50-100.). When students regularly elect to eat out at restaurants rather than eating meals with their homestays (which are included in the tuition), an individual’s weekly budget can become grossly inflated.
SPI’s on-site staff is highly-trained to assist with all questions and concerns from our students, and we pride ourselves on providing the utmost in care and support at all times. When this particular concern was brought forth, the SPI Biarritz team investigated every angle thoroughly and completely from all parties involved, and the issue was resolved on-site. As any high school student can attest to, learning to co-exist with a roommate is one of the biggest and most important components of the pre-college experience that defines high school study abroad.
SPI has been utilizing PicCell Wireless for a number of years now due to the company’s reputation as the #1 cell service provider for study abroad students. As is the case with international phone rates, it’s crucial that students pay strict attention to roaming rates and texting charges, as these can contribute to a much higher monthly bill than anticipated.
We appreciate your feedback and wish you all the best in your upcoming endeavors!